Background Summary

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In her 25 years as a Child and Youth Care Practitioner, Willa has worked with children, adolescents, and families with the utmost care, ethics, and compassion. In her long and rich career. Willa has worked in a variety of settings such as schools, group homes, open and closed custody centers, child protection, hospitals, day treatment, and mental health agencies. She has helped countless clients through issues of anxiety, depression, safety planning, transitions, low self-esteem, trauma, family conflict and behavioural issues.

Willa sees the potential in all her clients regardless of their age or their presenting issues. She is particularly skilled at creating a safe space for all individuals. She values the time of her clients and focuses on gaining a clear understanding of their goals and works with them towards achieving those outcomes. She utilizes a variety of techniques such as CBT, DBT, solution-focused, play therapy, narrative therapy and ACT.  

Over the years, Willa has skillfully helped facilitate individual and group sessions to resolve parent-child conflict. She is very comfortable with helping people navigate and process difficult emotions and arrive at a place where they can productively manage their conflict. She has also conducted countless therapeutic, life skills, anger management, self-esteem and emotional regulation groups for children, adolescents and parents. 

Willa is highly self-aware and attuned to her own process and this quality allows her to be aware and attuned to the needs and experiences of her clients. This makes her an excellent Youth Worker, Psychotherapist, Parent Educator and Group Facilitator. She has a Masters in Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University and works within the educational system.

Fun Fact:

Willa Loves crafts, and baking